<p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Brookfield’s Expedia Cruises Hosts Adults-Only Travel Night Featuring Sandals Resorts and Virgin Voyages</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">If you’ve ever dreamed of sipping a cocktail aboard a luxury cruise or lounging beachside at an all-inclusive resort—without the kids in tow—this is your invitation to turn that dream into a plan.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Join Jim and Mary Villamana, owners of the full-service travel agency Expedia Cruises in Brookfield, for an evening of wine, light bites, and insider tips on the best in adults-only vacations. On Wednesday, May 21, at Del Primo Ristorante &amp; Bar in Brookfield, guests will hear from experts at Sandals Resorts and Virgin Voyages, two brands that have redefined what it means to get away in style.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">This relaxed, informative gathering will showcase the newest offerings, exclusive itineraries, and elevated experiences tailored specifically for adults. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a milestone celebration, or simply in need of a grown-up getaway, Jim and Mary’s team of Vacation Consultants can help you find your perfect escape.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Event Details</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2025</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> Time: 6:30 PM</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> Location: Del Primo Ristorante &amp; Bar, 450 Federal Rd, Brookfield, CT</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> RSVP by May 18:</span><a href="https://promo.expediacruises.com/900221/sandalsvirgin2025/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"> Learn more and reserve your spot here</a></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Space is limited, so don’t wait. Pour a glass, pull out your calendar, and start dreaming!</span></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>

<p><a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail19.com/t/j-l-wtjuya-tlluktttuu-k/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(10, 10, 10);"><strong>Governor Lamont Highlights Proactive Steps Connecticut Is Taking To Address ‘The Link’ Between Child Abuse and Animal Cruelty</strong></a></p><p>Governor Ned Lamont today joined other state officials and animal welfare advocates for a news conference at the headquarters of the Connecticut Humane Society in Newington to commemorate Child Abuse Awareness Month and Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month and highlight the proactive work being done among Connecticut state agencies to cross report accounts of animal cruelty for assessment and possible investigation to determine the safety of children in households where these reports have occurred.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Numerous studies have shown that there is a strong correlation between instances of animal abuse, child maltreatment, and other forms of interpersonal violence, including domestic violence and elder abuse. Professionals refer to this correlation as “The Link.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Over the last several years, staff from Connecticut state agencies, including the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) and the Connecticut Department of Agriculture (DOAG), have been strengthening their partnerships to respond to “The Link” by cross reporting these instances to each other. Upon receiving reports of reasonable suspicion of animal cruelty from state, regional, and municipal animal control officers, DOAG staff are mandated to forward that information to staff from DCF, who then review whether any children in those homes could be impacted.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">“It’s clear that in homes where animal cruelty has occurred, child abuse or other forms of domestic violence may be present,”&nbsp;Governor Lamont said. “By cross reporting this information between state agencies, our staff can proactively investigate whether other forms of violence are occurring in a home and take measures to protect any children, adults, or animals who may be impacted.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify">“Our continued collaboration with DCF and other state and local partners is essential to increasing education and outreach around the link between child abuse and animal cruelty,”&nbsp;Connecticut Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt said. “Through training and education, animal control officers are key partners in recognizing and responding to signs of cruelty and sharing that information appropriately to protect the safety and wellbeing of both children and animals.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Connecticut has seen demonstrated increases in animal cruelty reports over the past several years, due in part to increased education and outreach efforts by both DCF and DOAG. For example, DCF has made cross reporting a part of the agency’s mandated reporter training. More recently, across its 14 offices, DCF has also more than doubled the number of cross-reporting liaisons who are responsible for helping to triage cases between DCF social workers and animal control officers and provide monthly training and educational support to teams of staff.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">In 2024, DOAG sent DCF 90 reports, while in that same year DCF sent a total of 107 reports to DOAG. Last year, “The Link” was apparent in 16 reports that met the standard for an abuse/neglect investigation based on the initial information provided in the written report. Of those 90 reports, 13 were made on families that were already involved with and receiving supports from DCF.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">A review of research studies shows that:</p><ul><li>Animals were harmed in 88% of homes where a child was physically abused.</li><li>75% of female survivors of domestic violence report their pets were threatened or intentionally harmed by their partner.</li><li>Children exposed to domestic violence are three times more likely to be cruel to animals.</li><li>45% of caseworkers working with the elderly encountered animal abuse or neglect co-occurring with elder abuse.</li></ul><p class="ql-align-justify">Anyone can make a report of animal cruelty by contacting their local animal control department in the town where those concerns have been noted or by contacting DOAG’s Animal Control Office at 860-713-2506 or&nbsp;<strong style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);">AGR.AnimalControl@ct.gov</strong>. Those making a report can remain anonymous.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">A reasonable suspicion of child maltreatment can be made to DCF’s Child Abuse and Neglect Careline by dialing 1-800-842-2288. The hotline is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Callers can remain anonymous.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;</p><p><br></p>

<p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">THIS: Traveling the world while helping others plan their dream trips?</strong></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">THAT: Sitting at a desk all day in a 9-5 job?</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">If you're passionate about travel and love helping others experience the world, becoming a Vacation Consultant with Expedia Cruises™ could be the perfect fit for you!</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Say goodbye to the ordinary and hello to an exciting, flexible career where you can make a real impact on people’s lives.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">For more information, call (203) 429-5589 and ask to speak with Mary or Jim, local owners and operators of&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.expediacruises.com/en-US/900221/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); background-color: transparent;">Connecticut's first-ever Expedia Cruises&nbsp;</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">- a full-service travel agency located at 67 Federal Road in Brookfield.</span></p>

<p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Celebrate Mother's Day with a charming outing at Castle Hill Farm in Newtown. On Sunday, May 11, 2025, the farm invites families to enjoy a day filled with delightful activities in a picturesque setting.​</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The event features a variety of family-friendly activities, including a relaxed station-style egg hunt where children can explore farm-themed stations at their own pace. Attendees can also enjoy live music, crafts, and delicious treats from local vendors. It's a perfect opportunity to create lasting memories with the special women in your life.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Castle Hill Farm is located at 1 Sugar Lane, Newtown, CT. </span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit their official website:</span><a href="https://www.castlehillfarm.net/mother-s-day" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> </a><a href="castlehillfarm.net" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">castlehillfarm.net</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">.​</span></p>

<p><strong>TOWN OF NEWTOWN REFERENDUM RESULTS</strong></p><p> <strong>April 22, 2025</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Total Voted:</strong> 4,287</li><li><strong>Total Registered Voters:</strong> 18,310</li><li><strong>Voter Turnout:</strong> 23.4%</li><li><strong>Grand List Voters:</strong> 1</li><li><strong>Voted by Absentee:</strong> 145</li></ul><p><strong>Question 1</strong></p><p> <em>Shall the sum of $49,866,665 be appropriated for the Board of Selectmen for the fiscal year 2025-2026?</em></p><ul><li>Yes: 2,479</li><li>No: 1,777</li></ul><p><strong>Question 2</strong></p><p> <em>If the proposed sum for the Board of Selectmen is not approved, should the revised budget be higher?</em></p><ul><li>Yes: 1,266</li><li>No: 2,932</li></ul><p><strong>Question 3</strong></p><p> <em>Shall the sum of $91,744,644 be appropriated for the Board of Education for the fiscal year 2025-2026?</em></p><ul><li>Yes: 2,432</li><li>No: 1,838</li></ul><p><strong>Question 4</strong></p><p> <em>If the proposed sum for the Board of Education is not approved, should the revised budget be higher?</em></p><ul><li>Yes: 1,748</li><li>No: 2,473</li></ul><p><strong>Question 5</strong></p><p> <em>Shall the $4,600,000 special appropriation and bond authorization for HVAC upgrades at the Cyrenius H. Booth Library be approved?</em></p><ul><li>Yes: 2,780</li><li>No: 1,481</li></ul><p><strong>Question 6</strong></p><p> <em>Shall the $4,300,000 special appropriation and bond authorization for roof work at Newtown High School be approved?</em></p><ul><li>Yes: 2,941</li><li>No: 1,320</li></ul><p><strong>Question 7</strong></p><p> <em>Shall the $1,524,000 special appropriation and bond authorization for the Community Center Pool HVAC unit be approved?</em></p><ul><li>Yes: 2,254</li><li>No: 1,997</li></ul><p><strong>Question 8</strong></p><p> <em>Shall the $1,000,000 special appropriation and bond authorization for the Bridge Replacement Program be approved?</em></p><ul><li>Yes: 3,020</li><li>No: 1,217</li></ul><p><strong>Question 9</strong></p><p> <em>Shall the $855,000 special appropriation and bond authorization for renovations and upgrades to Edmond Town Hall be approved?</em></p><ul><li>Yes: 2,770</li><li>No: 1,490</li></ul><p><br></p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><strong>Attention Newtown Aquarion Water Company Customers: Non-Essential Outdoor Water Use Restrictions in Effect</strong></p><p>Since the August 2024 rainstorm and flooding, Aquarion's primary water supply for its Newtown and Bethel systems has remained offline. The collapsed railroad bridge downstream of&nbsp;Newtown wells continues to create ponded water in the wellfield, prohibiting its use.</p><p>To ensure an adequate water supply for daily use and fire flow, non-essential outdoor water use restrictions are in effect. These restrictions are subject to change.&nbsp;Variances will not be offered under these restrictions. </p><p>For more information, click <a href="https://www.aquarionwater.com/conservation/irrigation/newtown-bethel-water-use-ban" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a> or contact Aquarion Water Company:</p><p><em>Aquarion Water Company</em></p><p><em>200 Monroe Turnpike</em></p><p><em>Monroe, CT 06468</em></p><p><em>1‑800‑732‑9678</em></p>